then
14 synonyms and 3 antonyms for then, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adv — At that time (in the past or future).
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From Old English þonne — originally the same word as "than," which split off into a separate spelling for comparisons.
Full origin of then →Frequently asked questions
What does “then” mean?
The word “then” means at that time (in the past or future). In plain terms, refers to a point in time, the next step in a sequence, or a logical consequence.
How do you pronounce “then”?
“Then” is pronounced thehn (/ðɛn/ in IPA).
How do you use “then” in a sentence?
Here is “then” used in a sentence: “We were still in school then.”
What is another word for “then”?
Words with a similar meaning to “then” include and then, followed by, as a result, ensuingly, therewhile and followingly.
What is the opposite of “then”?
The opposite of “then” — its antonyms — are before, previously and prior to.
What part of speech is “then”?
“Then” is an adverb.
Where does the word “then” come from?
The word “then” comes from Old English. From Old English þonne — originally the same word as "than," which split off into a separate spelling for comparisons.
Is “then” a common word?
“Then” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
What is the difference between "then" and "than"?
"Then" relates to time or sequence — it means "at that time" or "next in a sequence of events," as in "we ate, then we left." "Than" is used only for comparisons, as in "taller than me." If you are comparing two things, use "than"; if you are talking about time or order, use "then."
Do you need a comma before "then"?
"Then" is an adverb, not a conjunction, so it cannot join two complete sentences with only a comma. In formal writing, use "and then" or a semicolon: "We ate, and then we left" or "We ate; then we left." The comma-only version is common in casual writing but is technically a comma splice.
Can you start a sentence with "then"?
Yes. Starting a sentence with "then" is a natural way to show the next step in a sequence: "Then the lights went out." A comma after an opening "then" is optional and is usually omitted when it simply means "next."
Is "back then" correct English?
Yes. "Back then" is a standard phrase meaning "at that time in the past," as in "life was simpler back then." It is slightly informal, so in formal writing you might prefer "at that time."